Though only eight minutes long, Castello Cavalcanti is essential viewing for fans of Wes Anderson's work. With beautiful set pieces including a famous prop from Fellini's "La Dolce Vita" (both were filmed at the same studio in Rome) and a number of distinctive background characters, Anderson immediately establishes a truly memorable period atmosphere that evokes positive memories from both his own work and classic Italian films. Furthermore, Jed Cavalcanti, a Formula 1 driver played by Jason Schwarzman, is a funny, unique protagonist who fits comfortably alongside Max Fischer and Steve Zissou. Brisk and enjoyable, the film is a wonderful surprise that bears no resemblance to an advertisement and does not overstay its welcome. Anderson has stated that, with the further participation of Prada, he hopes to follow Cavalanti in more adventures filmed at other great studios around the world. Let's hope he follows through on that promising idea and that Cavalcanti becomes the star of many more Anderson shorts.
Review of Castello Cavalcanti
